Manchester City are exploring a potential deal to sign Eli Junior Kroupi from Bournemouth, with preliminary talks already underway between the club and the player’s representatives, according to TEAMtalk. The 19-year-old forward has quickly become one of the most sought-after young talents in European football following a breakout season with the Cherries.
Kroupi joined Bournemouth from Lorient last year and has since established himself as a key player, scoring 13 goals in 33 appearances across all competitions. His impressive form has attracted attention from several top clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, all of whom have monitored his progress closely. Interest extends beyond the Premier League, with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich also reportedly in the mix.
Manchester City view Kroupi as a versatile attacking option who could strengthen their forward line. Director of football Hugo Viana has already initiated discussions with the player’s representatives to gauge his interest and assess the feasibility of a transfer. However, Bournemouth are determined to retain their prized asset and will not easily agree to a sale.
The Cherries are reportedly prepared to demand a fee of at least £80 million for Kroupi, reflecting their high valuation of the player and their desire to keep him at the Vitality Stadium. The club recently made a ‘major statement of intent’ to retain their best players, but acknowledge that a substantial offer from a Champions League-caliber club could prove difficult to resist. Kroupi himself is settled on the south coast but has admitted the appeal of playing in the Champions League.
Bournemouth are keen to avoid another summer of high-profile departures, having already seen Marcos Senesi join Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer. They have recently opened contract talks with Kroupi, who is currently tied to the club until 2030, in an attempt to ward off potential suitors. City have previously done business with Bournemouth, signing Antoine Semenyo for £65 million in January. Bournemouth are also in discussions with City regarding a separate deal for one of their players, valued at £41 million.
